Game 5 (3/20) vs. Rangers

Well, for the last four innings of this game, the Cubs outscored the Rangers 3-0, with no Rangers baserunner getting past second base. Unfortunately, we have to count all 6 innings, including the first two, when the Rangers scored 5 runs to defeat the Cubs 5-3.

On the plus side of the ledger, Matt drew two walks, stole second in the third inning (photo to the left, courtesy of the incredible action shots taken by Amy S.) and came all the way around to score on an infield hit by Sean. Zach also walked twice, stole three bases and scored a run. Kanade had two hits, showing off his speed on both of them and by stealing bases and turning in an acrobatic play at home plate. Brandon reached on fielder's choice scorcher to third base. Matthew B. walked and grounded out on a hard hit ball. Wyatt also hit the ball hard and just got nipped at first base after running hard down the line. Mario and Anon each drew key walks. Kaden showed a good approach at the plate, hitting the ball hard to the right side. Michael and Sean each had a single and each flew out deep to center field.

On defense, Wyatt made a nice stop on a ball in left field and snagged a hot smash at second base for an assist (please see photo to right), Mario made a very nice play on a grounder in the hole at shortstop for an assist and recorded a putout on a lead runner on a head's up play by Kaden at pitcher, almost converting a 1-6-3 double play, Anon had a nice catch at second base, Kanade had a good assist at third, Matthew recorded five outs at first base, and Michael and Sean donned the "tools of ignorance" as Yogi Berra called the catcher's gear for two and three innings, respectively, and played valiantly back there on a hot, dry day. On the mound, Kaden retired the final four batters he faced, the last three on just 6 pitches and Michael threw two innings of no-hit ball, retiring 6 of 7, including 5 strikeouts.

Awards:
Energy: Kanade. His acrobatic leap over the catcher in and of itself was enough for the award, but his two hits and multiple stolen bases just added to it
Effort: Matt for his great job on the bases -- not just for stealing second and coming all the way around to score on an infield single, but also for his great job listening and knowing the situation by getting back to the base on an outfield flyout.
Focus: Sean, who stole two bases and scored on one pitch
Toughness: Kaden, who battled back from things out of his control to finish strong on the mound when his team needed him.